Along with the introduction of K-series engine, Maruti Suzuki has come up with an array of launches and upgradings like Ritz, A-star, Estilo etc. Maruti Alto, company's one of the largest selling car is also finally on the rolls with its emission standards being raised to the BS IV standard. The engine sported by the car however remains the same 796 cc engine delivering 47 bhp. Due to the stringent application of BS IV norms in 13 cities in India, Maruti Suzuki had decided earlier this year to phase out Maruti 800 and Maruti Omni. This upgraded version of Maruti Alto comes with a lower price tag and that is what is speculated to keep the largest car maker in the country the best candidate to win in the hatch-back segment.
The relaunched Maruti Alto would sport a 5-speed synchromesh gearbox, ground clearance of 160mm, turning circle radius of 4.6m, a tyre size of 145/80 R12 and would be shelved in the price range of 2.36 to 2.85 lacs (ex-showroom Bangalore) for metallic colour versions. The Non-metallic versions of the same would cost Rs. 4000 lesser.
The type and number of variants of the new Maruti Alto would however remain the same as Standard, Lx, Lxi. Visibly the car would remain almost same with minor differences in the trunk door. This needs to be applauded as Maruti has managed to bring changes in the exteriors of the car without much of a investment. Tubeless tyres, sparkling tail lamps, and clear lens head lamps would all be a part of new Alto that indeed have helped to provide it a novel look and appeal.
Although there are minor changes in the exteriors, a considerable face-lift has been done to the interiors of the car. Front seats with integrated head-rests, dual-tone dashboard, newly done speedometer are some of the major changes that one could notice in the interiors of new Maruti Alto. One of the most noticeable addition to the car is the iCATS (intelligent Computerized Anti Theft System), that allows the car to be started with only the original key.
With Maruti Alto being the most successful model by Maruti Suzuki, the company has retained the engine and most of the looks with only minor additions and changes for the good.
